We've got tech toys and cool gadgets for a variety of tastes. Is your best friend a music enthusiast? We highlight some great speakers and headphones, a USB microphone for recording his own tunes and a shower curtain that will let him listen (and Web surf) in the bathtub. An exercise fiend? We've got a bike bag made especially for smartphone users and a top-notch fitness tracker she can wear on her wrist. Looking for a gift that's both cute and useful? We've got iPhone cases, USB hubs and cable holders that will rival any YouTube cat video.

Week by week, we're rolling out new sections of the gift guide, starting with superb audio gear for a range of budgets and followed by an array of nifty gadgets and gizmos for $100 or less. Soon we'll deliver sections on smartphones and smartphone accessories, tablets and tablet accessories, and a grab-bag of low-cost stocking stuffers.

For each product you'll find a description by a Computerworld staffer or contributor, along with links to product pages and places to shop. When possible, we've included a range of prices as offered by various vendors, but be aware that prices fluctuate, especially at this time of year.

Keep in mind, too, that while we've focused on the most up-to-date versions of products like smartphones and tablets, you can often save a chunk of change by opting for earlier models -- that is, if you know your gift recipients won't mind missing out on some of the latest and greatest features.

As always, be careful of false deals and scams. (See Computerworld columnist Kenneth Van Wyk's helpful tips for staying safe while shopping online or by mobile device. He wrote them last year, but they're just as valid today.)

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